Webquest on Constructivism

Over the last two weeks our group worked on the Constructivism Webquest. I have made my own Webquest before and I like the format. It is very easy to follow with the Introduction, Task, Resources, Process, and Evaluation (which provided a rubric). By using this Webquest I gained a better understanding of Constructivism its theory and how it can be used to teach in the classroom. For the assignment, we decided to make a power point with information regarding the theory and history of Constructivism and the essential ideas as well. We listed the advantages and disadvantages and Lindsay turned the information into a visual display using Inspiration. We then made science lessons plan that aligned with the 5E lesson plan design. I picked a second grade science unit on air and weather. This lesson introduces the concept of air and weather. Students were able to experiment on their own with materials to see how air affected their movement. In the explanation stage teacher and students work together, by comparing and contrasting students observations. The teacher then clarifies and thoroughly explained the concept of air. Students are actively engaged in the inquiry process as learn about air.

How is the 5E lesson plan design (from the Constructivism, Webquest) aligned with the inquiry process? If you were a principal of the school, will you encourage your teachers using it in their classrooms? Why?

Constructivism is the philosophy about learning, that proposes learners need to build their own understanding of new ideas. When learning new things we use both our prior knowledge and knowledge gained from new explorations. Many times we are curious about a topic and are motivated to learn and answer our own questions about the topic. We poke, probe, inquire and explore the topic until we gain some information. As we investigate the topic we learn new ideas and combine them with our prior experiences to gain a better understanding of the topic. We extend our understanding by discussions. We then validate the theory as we solve problems.
It is up to the teacher to facilitate the constructivism theory into the classroom. Students come to school full of questions. Sometimes teachers hinder students from asking questions because they do not have enough time to teach them everything there is on the curriculum. Teachers should promote opportunities and events that encourage and support student’s inquiry. I think that principals should stress the 5 E lesson plan model when teaching science to their students. This type of model encourages active learning and I believe that students will gain a thorough understanding of the topic.